We were contracted to replace flashboards and perform apron scour repairs at a hydroelectric dam along the Rock River in the Upper Midwest. Our client is a privately owned entity that owns and operates 80+ hydroelectric facilities throughout the United States.

The project’s significant goals involved increasing the dam’s retainage capacity, protecting the existing spillway structure, and providing an aesthetically pleasing spillway for the community's residents. This project was scheduled for the summer months when flow rates are at their lowest, mainly due to the volatility of the Rock River and the need for a slow-moving current to keep our divers safe. 

We're at Minnesota Power's hydroelectric dam in Scanlon, Minnesota, to replace 7 of the structure's Tainter gates. Extending the life of this renewable energy source by 50 to 100 years, the Scanlon Dam Gate Replacement Project enables the further creation of clean, renewable power provided to local communities. 

We were pulled into the project very early on during the design phase of the project. Both Nelosca and Minnesota Power attribute the project's success to early contractor involvement.

Nelosca Technologies, Inc. (Nelosca) announces the promotion of Christopher Rousseau, P.E., F. ASCE to Hydro and Renewable Energy Market Leader. Rousseau’s promotion is announced concurrently with Nelosca’s strategic objective to further invest in renewable energy development.

Rousseau will use decades of experience in hydroelectric generation working for Midwest-based utility, Minnesota Power, to support the repair and rehabilitation needs of Nelosca’s hydro dam clients. Catering to a huge need for early contractor involvement; Rousseau is bridging the gap between hydroelectric dam owners, engineers, and the contractor teams that perform inspections, maintenance, and rehabilitation work.

ROV stands for remotely operated vehicle. They are highly maneuverable unoccupied machines used to observe and work underwater, often in areas that are deemed too dangerous for commercial divers. ROV pilots can operate them from a nearby shore or boat.

Remotely operated vehicles are versatile tools commonly used in our industry to inspect, monitor underwater structures, and perform complex work tasks in depths divers cannot access. Although, more recreational ROVs are available with advancements in technology. These revolutionary machines are utilized by many industries to reduce costs to clients and keep divers safe in unknown or dangerous conditions.

Marine construction firm Nelosca Technologies (Nelosca) is excited to announce the addition of new Senior Estimator, Government Relations and Hydro Operations Manager Christopher Rousseau, P.E., F. ASCE to its team.

“We are fortunate to have Chris join our team,” says Vice President of Business Development Mark Binsfeld. “His firsthand knowledge of hydroelectric generation and surrounding regulatory factors will allow us to serve our clients more effectively.”

Nelosca Technologies (Nelosca) recently established a permanent presence in the Mid-South Region. Our company’s new Mid-South location is in Paducah, Kentucky, and will provide all Nelosca services, including above and below-water construction and environmental remediation services.

Through multiple successful projects, Nelosca Technologies (Nelosca) developed a great partnering relationship with the Midwest group of Xcel Energy® (Xcel). From Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) dive inspections and innovative dam repair projects to the implementation of amphibious equipment and helicopters for transmission line installation, we are always looking at ways of incorporating Nelosca’s “can-do” attitude into all client interactions. This year, we got the opportunity to work with Xcel’s Western group.

British company Fish Guidance Systems Ltd specializes in fish guidance equipment. They were set to work alongside Barr Engineering (Barr) as the prime contractor in a new study-based project in Kentucky, and hired Nelosca Technologies, Inc. (Nelosca) to help execute their revolutionary endeavor.

Traditionally when it comes to installing sheet piling around a bridge pier or along an embankment we think of steel sheet piling.  Steel sheet piling are the most common, and have been one of the most effective methods of installing a deep foundation.  They have a long history of providing a robust barrier through shaped, interlocking sheets that can last for 75+ years. 

Due to their importance, the condition of water-based structures should never be taken for granted, nor should the methods in which they are inspected.  Periodic underwater inspections are crucial to keeping your structure safe and dependable.  Make certain that the dive teams you work with have the experience and know-how to provide you with all the information you need to ascertain current conditions of your structures by keeping three simple things in mind: